Virgin Australia announced they will be adding additional Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) to Brisbane return flights during the week on Monday's, Thursday's and Friday's, utilising their B737-800 aircraft, adding 54,000 seats annually in to the region and bringing in more than $30 million in tourism expenditure.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox and CEO Barry Omundson recently joined Whitsunday Coast Airport (WCA) general manager Brian Joiner to initiate rounds of talks with all airlines to boost passenger seat numbers for the airport, off the back of Tigerair ceasing their flights on the same route back in February this year.

"We are catering for further growth with a recent runway upgrade and terminal expansion ensuring visitors to our region enjoy a positive experience when transiting,” Cr Willcox said.

"These record numbers are even more impressive when you consider the challenging period our community endured in the wake of the impacts of Cyclone Debbie.”

"I am grateful for the support and confidence Virgin has shown in the ability of our region to continue to grow.

"Our airport team is also exploring options with airlines for commencement of a Whitsundays-Cairns direct flight to link with international services,” he said

It is yet to be confirmed when the additional flights will commence. Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with new announcements of the flights when they begin.